There is news this week of ways you can help an Ohio jazz legend. Drummer John Von Ohlen has had a long and storied career, including playing with Woody Herman from 1967 to 1969, and with Stan Kenton from 1970 to 1972. He is the longtime leader of Cincinnati’s Blue Wisp Big Band, and has led and collaborated with countless other projects. His Columbus ties include long friendships with Ray Eubanks and Vaughn Wiester, and has been featured with Eubanks’ Jazz Arts Group orchestra and Wiester’s Famous Jazz Orchestra many times, often in tribute to Kenton and his catalog. Unfortunately, Von Ohlen is currently having serious health issues that have caused him severe financial problems. His bandmates have organized a concert and benefit to help out. A John Von Ohlen Birthday Celebration featuring drummers Jeff Hamilton and Jim Rupp along with Von Ohlen’s Flying Circus big band will take place on Monday, April 30th from 7:30 to 11pm (2 sets) at The Greenwich, 2442 Gilbert Avenue in Cincinnati. Tickets and more details are available here. You can still donate if you cannot attend the show – click here for a fundraiser benefiting Von Ohlen. Celebrate world-class big band jazz and help out one of Ohio’s greatest talents! See below to hear and learn more via video.
2018-04-25